Sep 24, 2022; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; Cincinnati Bearcats linebacker Ivan Pace Jr. (0) runs onto the field prior to the game against the Indiana Hoosiers at Nippert Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Katie Stratman-USA TODAY Sports — © Katie Stratman-USA TODAY Sports

Ivan Pace Jr. Named Semi-Finalist for Butkus, Bednarik Awards

The game wrecker is one of the most dominant defenders in the country.

Author:
Russ Heltman
Nov 1, 2022 4:00 PM EDT

CINCINNATI — UC star linebacker Ivan Pace Jr. is now a semi-finalist for the Butkus Award (best linebacker in the country) and the Bednarik Award (Best defensive player).

The senior has been fantastic this season, leadint the nation with 16.0 tackles for loss while sitting tied for 10th in sacks (7.0) and tied for 12th in tackles (10.38) for a Bearcats’ defense that ranks sixth nationally in yards per play (4.33).

He also ranks second behind teammate Dontay Corleone among all defenders in PFF Grade. Pace is the only Group of Five player out of 20 semifinalists for the Bednarik

He is one of 15 semifinalists for the Butkus Award and has just one other Group of Five player joining him.

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